In recent years, an online job interview has become the norm as we have had to reduce face-to-face meetings due to COVID-19. If you have an online job interview coming up on Zoom, Google Hangouts or Microsoft Teams, spend some time beforehand getting to know the process so you can ensure your interview goes as smoothly as possible. We have compiled a few tips to help you get ready and succeed in a virtual job interview.
Test your equipment and the video conferencing software
Download, sign up and test the video conferencing software you will be using. By getting to know the software and process, you can avoid any mishaps or getting flustered on the day. Download the software on both your phone and computer, just in case one of them doesn’t work on the day.
Ask a friend or family member to help you do a test run, check the audio and video quality, your background and lighting and that you understand how it works. If you haven’t used video conferencing software before or are unaccustomed to it, doing a test run, or even a couple, will help you be more comfortable.
Sit in front of a neutral background
A messy bedroom, kitchen or office can give negative and unprofessional connotations to the interviewer. It can even be distracting. Ensure you are sitting behind a neutral background and without a distracting virtual background or filter.
Get the lighting and angle right
Avoid sitting behind bright backlighting or in the dark. The interviewer needs to see you! Your best bet is sitting in front of a window with natural light pouring in. Try a couple of different spots around the house and find one you feel comfortable with and can be seen well in. If you are using your phone for the video call, make sure you are fully charged and have propped it up using a mount.
Double-check the time and time zone of the interview
With lots of things to think about, it’s very easy to mistake the time of your interview, especially if you are applying for a remote job in a different time zone. Make sure you double-check it!
Dress for the job interview
Although you are at home and not going into an office, you still need to dress the part for the job interview. Wear what you would normally wear for a physical job interview, and make sure it is appropriate for the type of company and culture you are applying for. Don’t forget to put on your work shoes as this can have a positive and motivational psychological effect.
Stick post its around your computer
If it helps, you can stick post its around your desk with notes, questions or motivations. Remember, the interviewer can only see what’s on camera, so you can use this space to your advantage.
Remove distractions
Losing your train of thought is the last thing you want to do in an online job interview. Being at home means more distractions. Make sure you close all the windows on your computer except for what’s necessary. Put your phone on silent unless you are using it for the interview. Close the door or windows and make sure everyone at home will not come into the room.
Get in the right frame of mind
It is crucial to get in the right frame of mind before your online interview. Whether you need to calm your nerves or pick your energy levels up, make sure you do something to help you clear your mind, such as putting the kettle on or getting out of the house and having a walk around the block.
Note from Author, Caroline Seear
If you have an online job interview coming up, don’t stress and prepare beforehand so you can ensure your interview goes as smoothly as possible. We hope you find these tips useful and wish you the best of luck in your next online job interview!
As specialist recruiters of 20 years, we are here to look after your needs and provide ongoing professional support. If you are looking for a job in any of our industries, please do get in touch to tell us what you’re looking for and we’ll do our best to assist.
